The Natchitoches, Louisiana community is mourning the loss of Nick West, a beloved coach, mentor, and friend, who passed away recently. A former coach at Parkview Baptist School, Nick was widely known for his dedication to his students and his passion for both athletics and character development.
Nick West’s coaching career was marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence on and off the field. He was admired not only for his knowledge of the game but also for his ability to inspire young athletes to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their goals. His players and colleagues remember him as a patient teacher, a strong leader, and a compassionate guide who always prioritized the well-being of those around him.
Beyond coaching, Nick was deeply involved in his community, building relationships that extended far beyond the school grounds. Friends describe him as someone who could light up a room with his smile and make everyone feel valued and respected. His passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he impacted.
Nick is preceded in death by his grandparents, Billy West, Sr. and Paula Haynes West of Natchitoches and Matthus and Virginia Gremillion West of Ville Platte.nNick is survived by his parents, Billy L. West, Jr. of Natchitoches, Louisiana and Shelley Coe West of Ville Platte, Louisiana and Augustine Williams Nabors of Natchitoches, Louisiana and his Aunt and Uncle, Cyndi and Terry Downs of Natchitoches, Louisiana. He is also survived by his cousins, Jennifer Martin (Kevin) of Oswego, New York, William Downs (Meredith) of Biloxi, Mississippi and Andrew Downs (Melissa) of Kerrville, Texas.
Visitation for family and friends of Nick will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Blanchard St. Denis Funeral Home, 848 Keyser Ave., Natchitoches, Louisiana, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 5:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, with burial to follow at Memory Lawn in Natchitoches, Louisiana, under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home.
